'My Tokelau' song launched for SIDS

The Tokelau-Apia Liaison Office launched its theme song, “My Tokelau” today. It marks the participation of this true Small Island Developing State, in the SIDS conference that kicks off in Apia this week.

The Ulu of Tokelau, Aliki Faipule Kuresa Nasau stated: “This song is about localizing and understanding global issues such as the sustainability of our vulnerable islands in the face of climate change, national disasters, exploitation of our oceans, and the unsustainable use of our environment.

“I believe that Tokelauans and friends of Tokelau everywhere can celebrate another milestone in our journey. I want to acknowledge a special musician, Mr Danny Rae Costello and his team who have worked tirelessly to bring the hearts and souls of Tokelau into SIDS here in Samoa. I want to express my sincere gratitude – Fakafetai lahi lele! Through this theme song, you are helping Tokelau and other small islands such as ours convey our distinct voice,” the Ulu said.

Singer-songwriter Danny Costello introducing his work

“Tokelau congratulates the Government and the people of Samoa for their role in bringing the world to Samoa so that we can highlight these shared issues, ultimately ensuring a safer and sustainable future for our region and beyond.

“I hope that the theme song “My Tokelau” that we are launching today will continue to encourage all to work together. I know that Tokelauans and friends of Tokelau everywhere will share in the pride of what we can accomplish through initiatives such as the one demonstrated through today’s launch and commencement of our SIDS engagement. Thank you and God Bless!The song is available in mp3 format on the website, as are the lyrics in pdf format (see below also). A video to accompany the music will be mounted soon – mind its large file size.”

Singer-songwriter Danny Costello and Tokelau-SIDS adviser Leatigaga Mark Bonin at the video-presentation and song launch in Apia today.

MY TOKELAU

1.
My islands in the sun
From the moment time begun
You have touched me with your grace
As I warm in your embrace
I stand in admiration
at the wonders of creation

2.
There’s a story in our eyes
We can hear our children’s cries
Though our journey has been long
This is where we belong
And we are not alone
Blessed are we who call these islands home
And as I look upon your crystal sea
There is nowhere in the world I’d rather be

Chorus:
My Tokelau you are always in my heart
Forever I will call you home
And never shall we part
My Tokelau united we will stand
As you and I walk hand in hand
Through hope and love for our homeland

3.
Our people of the sun
Together we stand as one
There is hope for you and I
Don’t let our dreams die
There’s a new wind blowing
For God is all-knowing

4.
Now the future is unfolding
And the stars above us glowing
There is no more time for sorrow
But the promise of tomorrow
And we are one
Thankful for the things to come
And all the nations they will see
When they look upon our people of the sea